Farmers planting maize can continue to use oxo-degradable plastic this season as stocks are used up.

However, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine will not carry out trials on covered maize in 2022, and a recommended list for uncovered maize varieties will not be available until 2023.

The change follows the introduction of the Single-Use Plastic Directive from the EU on 3 July 2021, banning single use plastic such as cutlery, cups and maize plastic.

Oxo-degradable plastic is used in the production of approximately 90% of maize grown in Ireland each year.

Farmers with that plastic in stock can continue to use it this season, while retailers who placed product on the market before the ban came into effect can sell the product according to the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications which has responsibility for the directive.

Sellers of maize seed, spray and coverings are confident that alternative coverings, being described as compostable, will be a sufficient replacement for oxo-degradable plastic, albeit at a higher cost and shorter lifespan in the field.

Independent trials

The Irish Farmers Journal understands that independent trials on the new film will be needed before varieties are tested under the film.

Approximately 14,500ha of maize were grown in the Republic of Ireland in 2021, with an estimated 10% of this, or 1,450ha, sown in the open without a cover.

Some farmers will no doubt be considering uncovered maize for the season ahead.

However, with the reassurance that stocks of plastic can be used up it allows for a longer transition period.

Farmers can use the tried and trusted plastic this season, but can also trial the compostable film on their farms.